Child Custody A Client-Focused & Family-Oriented Practice

Child Custody Lawyer Serving Centennial, CO

Committed to Fighting for Your Relationship with Your Child

If your custody rights to your children are in jeopardy, you need to act fast and act wisely. Because child custody disputes can be emotionally delicate, making the wrong legal moves in your divorce case can have consequences that will impact your future as a parent for years to come. With the help of an experienced child custody attorney in Centennial, you can build a case to increase your chances of obtaining the best possible outcome for your situation.

Contact us online to schedule a consultation with our Centennial child custody attorney.

Over a Decade of Aggressively Protecting Custody Rights

Since 2004, Wright Family Law has been the Centennial child custody law firm of choice for many throughout Colorado. Our Centennial custody attorneys are committed to helping clients see the big picture and make choices that protect their future.

We take time to understand the unique needs of each family and the specifics of their situation. No two families face the same set of challenges, so we adjust our approach to consider the details that may influence the final arrangement. Local knowledge plays a key role here—Centennial falls within Arapahoe County, where family courts often consider community resources and school systems when determining where a child spends their time. By aligning our strategy with both the facts of your case and practical realities in Centennial, we help you navigate every stage with confidence.

How the Child Custody Process Works in Centennial

The process usually starts with parents filing petitions at the Arapahoe County District Court, where most Centennial child custody cases are reviewed. From there, the court may require both parents to participate in mediation or parenting classes. As the case moves forward, the court schedules hearings to evaluate each family’s circumstances, and judges consider community-specific factors such as school schedules in the Cherry Creek or Littleton districts and proximity to extended family within Centennial neighborhoods.

What are Colorado's Laws on Parental Responsibilities?

In our state, the majority of custody decisions (called parental responsibilities in Colorado) aim to split time between parents as equally as possible. While each case is unique and will have different characteristics, the court will often try to find a solution that provides each parent time with their children. There may be situations where joint physical custody cannot be achieved, such as in cases of abuse or domestic violence.

Domestic violence concerns: If the home of a parent is potentially hazardous to a child, the court may rule in favor of the other parent. Unlike criminal cases, a credible accusation may be enough to bar a parent from seeing the child, regardless of their actual wrongdoing.

Child’s Choice to Live with One Parent

Children may choose to live with one parent at any age as long as they can clearly express their preference. Courts consider whether a child’s preference is the result of genuine feelings or is influenced by external pressures, and they look closely at the child’s well-being as well as their wishes.

Judges in Centennial consider the child's maturity and ability to articulate their preferences during these decisions. While there is no specific age in Colorado when a child can choose which parent to live with, the court may give more weight to preferences expressed by older children. This approach helps ensure that each child’s voice is heard and balanced with the need for stability.

Child Visitation When One Parent Lives Out of State

For parents who have a custody and visitation order in place, they may work toward a smooth transition if one parent decides to live out of state. They may also develop different scheduling ideas for when the relocation happens so that both parties maintain open communication.

Here are a few tips to consider when creating your new parenting schedule:

Traveling - this includes both the distance and expenses involved. The mode of transportation the child will use is also a topic for discussion.
Visitation - so that the child does not have to travel extensively, make arrangements so that the parent can visit more often.
Time Off - for holidays and vacations, align the child's schedule (school breaks, etc.) with yours as much as possible. That way, their daily routine is less disrupted.
Communication - this remains the most important aspect to consider. Your child deserves regular communication with their parent, whether by email, phone, or video calls.
Unspecified Visits - allowing the child to visit whenever the parent is available can offer unexpected opportunities to build relationships.
Extended Stays - this option covers extended weekends, holidays, and weekly visits to maximize each parent's time with their child.

FAQs

How long does the child custody process usually take in Centennial?

The timeline can vary based on the complexity of your case, but many cases in Arapahoe County take several months from filing to final order. Court schedules, mediation, and unique family circumstances all play a role in the length of the process.

Can children have input on which parent they live with?

Colorado law allows judges to consider a child's wishes if the child is mature enough to express a sound preference. The judge will weigh this input along with other factors to make a decision that supports the child's best interests.

What if my co-parent does not follow the custody order?

If a parent does not comply with the court-approved plan, you can ask the local court to enforce the order. The court may direct both parents to attend mediation or take additional steps to resolve the issue and prioritize the child's well-being.

Ready to Fight for Your Custody Rights in Centennial

With over a decade of proven legal experience, our team has built a reputation as a reliable choice clients can trust. Our child custody attorney in Centennial has helped parents build strong cases that protect their interests and ensure their children's rights are respected. Because these situations are often turbulent, you benefit from having an attorney by your side who can advocate firmly for your interests.

Speak with our Centennial child custody lawyer today by dialing (303) 558-5222 or contact us online now.

Continue Reading Read Less

A Commitment to Excellence

A Dedication to Our Clients

Get To Know Attorney Jamie L. Wright

Practicing With A Velvet Hammer
Attorney Wright is compassionate and empathetic towards her clients but will be tough in the courtroom when necessary.
Putting Kids First
At Wright Family Law, your children come first. Every move we make is in the best interest of your children's well-being.
15 Years of Experience
Attorney Wright has dedicated her career to family law and is extremely knowledgeable in her field.

Get In Touch

Call or Fill Out the Form Below

First Name
Please enter your first name.
Last Name
Please enter your last name.
Phone
Please enter your phone number.

This isn't a valid phone number.
Email
Please enter your email address.

This isn't a valid email address.
Are you a new client?
Please make a selection.
How can we help you?
Please enter a message.
By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from Wright Family Law at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy